A couple is divided over the correct way to pack supermarket shopping, with Dougie preferring to bag items at the checkout while Teresa insists on using the packing shelves at the back of the store. The dispute has been ongoing since they moved in together last year.
Dougie argues that packing at the checkout is quicker and avoids extra trips to the shelves. He says, 'When we take our trolley up to checkout, I put everything on a conveyor belt. Right after the cashier scans the item, I put it into a shopping bag... Our packing is done right there, quickly and in good time.' He believes Teresa's method wastes time, especially since he is the one who unpacks the shopping at home.
Teresa counters that the packing shelves are designed to prevent congestion at the till. She explains, 'There are literally things in place in the store that support my style of packing.' She finds the checkout process too rushed and prefers the calm of the shelves. 'I like going to the shelves at the back as it takes the pressure off. It’s the calmest way of doing things and, crucially, it’s the way the shop was designed.'
The couple often ends up with a mixed approach, as Teresa sabotages Dougie's efforts by loading items into the trolley for later packing. Despite the tension, there has never been a row at the checkout, just a 'frenetic vibe.' Teresa admits she never puts the shopping away at home, which Dougie says would make him more willing to compromise.
The dispute has even drawn comments from friends, who suggested that packing at the shelves is more efficient when shopping alone, but packing as they go is quicker as a couple. Teresa remains unconvinced, saying she will stick to her 'European' method when on her own.
